Availing themselves of the open-house of the unknown "Krewe," a
composite host that vanished on the stroke of twelve, many of "Old
Rough and Ready's" retinue mingled with the gathering, their uniforms,
well-worn, even shabby, unlike the spick and span regimentals from the
_costumier_. With bronzed faces and the indubitable air of campaigns
endured, they were the objects of lively interest to the fair maskers,
nor were themselves indifferent to the complaisance of their
entertainers. Hands, burned by the sun, looked blacker that night,
against the white gowns of waists they clasped; bearded faces more
grim visaged in contrast with delicate complexions; embroidery and
brocade whirled around with faded uniforms; and dancing aigrettes
waved above frayed epaulets and shoulder straps.

"Loog at 'im!" murmured a _fille a la cassette_, regarding one of
these officers who, however, held aloof from the festivities; a
well-built young man, but thin and worn, as though he, like his
uniform, had seen service. "If he would only carry my trunk!" she
laughed, relapsing into French and alluding to the small chest she
bore under her arm.

"Or my little white lamb!" gaily added her companion, a shepherdess.

And they tripped by with sidelong looks and obvious challenge which
the quarry of these sprightly huntresses of men either chose to
disregard or was unconscious of, as he deliberately surveyed his
surroundings with more curiosity than pleasure and absently listened
to a mountebank from "The Belle's Strategem."

"Who'll buy my nostrums?" cried the buffoon.

"What are they?" asked Folly, cantering near on a hobby horse.

"Different kinds for different people. Here's a powder for ladies--to
dispel the rage for intrigue. Here's a pill for politicians--to settle
bad consciences. Here's an eye-water for jealous husbands--it thickens
the visual membrane. Here's something for the clergy--it eliminates
windy discourses. Here's an infusion for creditors--it creates
resignation and teaches patience."

"And what have you for lovers?"

"Nothing," answered the clown; "love like fever and ague must run its
course. Nostrums! Who'll buy my nostrums?"

"Oh, I'm so glad I came!" enthusiastically exclaimed a tall, supple
girl, laden with a mass of flowers.

"Isn't it too bad, though, you can't polka with some of the military
gentlemen?" returned her companion who wore a toga and carried a
lantern. "Mademoiselle Castiglione wouldn't let yo